Bill > H4860

This bill establishes the Massachusetts Police Standards and Training Commission to set certification standards for law enforcement officers and agencies, investigate officer misconduct, and take disciplinary action including suspension or revocation of certification. Key provisions include: - Creating the Commission with 7 civilian members appointed by the Governor and Attorney General to oversee police certification, training, and disciplinary processes. - Requiring all law enforcement officers to be certified by the Commission and meet minimum standards including background checks, psychological fitness evaluations, and completion of training programs. - Empowering the Commission to suspend or revoke officer certification for misconduct like excessive force, bias, or dishonesty. - Establishing a division within the Commission to investigate complaints against officers and make disciplinary recommendations. - Prohibiting law enforcement from using certain tactics like chokeholds and requiring officers to intervene if they witness excessive force by another officer. - Creating a Police Training Fund to provide funding for officer training programs. - Granting the Attorney General's office authority to investigate and prosecute criminal conduct by law enforcement officers.

House Committee on Ways and Means (H)

https://malegislature.gov/Bills/191/H4860